Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy
Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy returns to the stage this December 13–21, 2025.
Inspired by E.T.A. Hoffmann's original tale, Loyce Houlton's Nutcracker Fantasy begins at a holiday party and unfolds through the eyes of young Marie as her enigmatic Godfather Drosselmayer weaves a magical dream adventure through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, performed live by the 44-piece Nutcracker Orchestra, this exquisite production showcases a dazzling cast of local dancers in a spectacular celebration of Twin Cities talent.
Be Part of the Magic.
Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy is particularly beloved for its whimsical and sophisticated roles for young dancers. We’re thrilled to once again open auditions for the 2025 production to all local dance students - new and returning - regardless of school affiliation! Participating dancers have the rare opportunity to train with the Nutcracker artistic team, rehearse alongside professional artists, and perform on the historic State Theatre stage.
This experience is designed to complement and enhance students’ ongoing training at their “home” studios. In 2024, more than 100 dancers from over 15 local schools joined the production, bringing this cherished holiday tradition to life for an audience of over 10,000.
Click here to learn more about the 2025 Nutcracker commitment. Keep reading below for details on workshops and auditions!
Nutcracker Workshops
Learn choreography from instructors who have performed many iconic Nutcracker roles - from the Littlest Mouse to the Sugarplum Fairy! Participants will have an opportunity to audition for the 2025 production on the final day of the workshop.
Workshops are open to all local dance students, regardless of school affiliation.
August 11-15 (ages 12+)
August 18-22 (ages 6-11)
Tuition: $225. Workshops will run Monday - Friday from 9:30a - 12:30p.
Audition Information
Join the 2025 cast of Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy! All local student dancers age 6+ with a strong background in classical and contemporary dance are invited to audition for performing and understudy roles, regardless of school affiliation.
Sunday, August 17 or Sunday, August 24
12:00p - 3:00p (ages 12+)
3:00p - 6:00p (ages 6-11)
Auditions will consist of a technique class and phrases from the production. Dancers only need to attend one audition date. Students registered for Nutcracker workshops will have an opportunity to audition at the end of the week and will not need to audition again.
AUDITION REGISTRATION OPENS JUNE 1, 2025